Who is the Braves' Best Shorstop Ever? Let's Vote
Let's take a stroll down memory lane and make the case for some of the obvious ones.
Rafeal Furcal – The Howitzer Attached To His Arm (4.9 WAR)
Rafael Furcal was a revelation when he burst onto the scene with the Braves in 2000, winning the National League Rookie of the Year. His speed was electric, and his arm was a cannon. Furcal could turn a routine ground ball into a double play with ease, and he had a knack for getting on base and igniting the offense from the leadoff spot. Over six seasons with Atlanta, Furcal was the engine that powered those early 2000s Braves teams, blending speed, defense, and an underrated bat. He was the total package at shortstop, a position that requires both athleticism and intelligence, and Furcal had both in spades.
Jeff Blauser (WAR: 29.3): His Kid Didn't Ruin Your Summer Theme Park Experience
Jeff Blauser was the quintessential steady hand during the Braves' golden era of the 1990s. While he was never the flashiest player, Blauser was the type of player every championship team needs: reliable, clutch, and versatile. Blauser was a two-time All-Star and part of the Braves' core during their unprecedented run of 14 consecutive division titles. His ability to get on base, combined with sneaky power, made him a valuable asset in the lineup. He played a key role in the Braves' 1995 World Series championship, bringing stability to a position where consistency is key. Blauser was the glue guy, always there when the Braves needed him most.
He's also not Walt Weiss.
Dansby Swanson (WAR: 16.3) - From Hero To Traitor
In another world, it's easy to imagine Dansby being number one on this list. However that is not how things shook out.
Needless to say, Dansby Swanson’s journey with the Braves is one of perseverance and poise. A Georgia native and the number one overall pick, Swanson carried the weight of expectations from the moment he arrived in Atlanta. Early struggles gave way to a career defined by clutch performances and defensive brilliance. Swanson’s bat came alive in critical moments, particularly in the Braves' 2021 World Series run, where he delivered timely hits and steady defense. Swanson is the kind of player who seems to get better when the lights are brightest, and his leadership on and off the field has made him a fan favorite and a key piece of the Braves' recent success.
Andrelton Simmons (WAR: 37.8) - The Full Package
Andrelton Simmons might be the best defensive shortstop many of us have ever seen. His range was otherworldly, and his arm was a weapon. Simmons didn’t just field ground balls; he made plays that defied logic. Whether it was going deep in the hole or charging a slow roller, Simmons made everything look effortless. His glove was so good that it overshadowed a bat that was better than people gave him credit for. In an era where power is king, Simmons reminded us of the beauty of defense and how a single player can change the complexion of a game just by being on the field. Simmons’ time with the Braves was relatively short, but his impact was profound and unforgettable.
I mean look at this cannon.
90.6 MPH turn and throw, stealing an out pic.twitter.com/WFrXYhmp3O
— Eric O’Flaherty (@EOF34) April 2, 2019
Yunel Escobar (WAR: 28.5) - It's Complicated
Yunel Escobar was as talented as they come, a shortstop with a rare combination of arm strength, athleticism, and offensive ability. Flashes of brilliance marked Escobar’s time in Atlanta—his quick release, his ability to hit for average, and his strong arm were all on display. Though his tenure with the Braves was relatively brief, Escobar left a lasting impression. He played the game with a flair that was both entertaining and effective. Escobar’s blend of tools made him a dynamic player and a key contributor during his years in Atlanta.
Current Braves Shorstop
Orlando Arcia, and you should already know this if you're here, is the current Braves shortstop. After being signed from the Brewers as a utility man, Arcia shocked Braves nation when he won the job out of spring training. He went on to make the all-star team in his first year as a starter, only to falter a bit towards the stretch (and again in 2024).